Abstract
Introduction As expanded endoscopic endonasal approaches are gaining popularity, a thorough understanding
of the anatomy of the intercavernous sinuses is pertinent to avoid bleeding complications.
There have been few studies reporting the presence and dimensions of the anterior
intercavernous sinus (AIS), posterior intercavernous sinus (PIS), and inferior intercavernous
sinus (IIS). We performed a cadaveric study to better understand these structures.
Methods Colored latex was injected into the arterial and venous trees of 17 cadaveric heads.
Dissections assessed the presence and dimensions of the AIS, PIS, and IIS. In an additional
three specimens, the sellar contents were subjected to histological analysis.
Results Of the 20 total specimens, 13 (65%) demonstrated the gross presence of all three
sinuses. In six specimens (30%), only the AIS and PIS could be identified, and in
one specimen, only an AIS and IIS were identified. An AIS was identified in all 20
(100%) specimens, PIS in 18 (88%), and an IIS in 14 (70%). In two specimens (10%),
the AIS covered the entire face of the sella. Dimensions of the AIS averaged 1.7 × 11.7 × 2.8 mm,
PIS averaged 1.5 × 10.8 × 1.7 mm, and IIS averaged 8.7 × 11.8 × 1.0 mm when present.
Conclusion All examined specimens demonstrated the presence of an AIS, and most had a PIS. The
presence of an IIS was more variable. Preoperative awareness of these sinuses is helpful
in planning transsphenoidal surgery to minimize the risk of bleeding.
Keywords
intercavernous sinus - circular sinus - expanded endoscopic endonasal approaches -
sella - sellar contents - pituitary - transsphenoidal surgery
